Beat the Winter Blues

The winter season can be tough for both children and parents – it gets darker outside earlier and the cold, snowy weather has everyone cooped up indoors. It doesn’t have to be a gloomy time for you and your children, though. Here are some tips to help your family beat the winter blues:

During winter, people tend to crave comfort foods such as pasta, breads and sugar, but continue to include a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your family’s diet to keep everyone from feeling fatigued.

Spend time outdoors with your family for at least 30 minutes each day, even if it’s cloudy outside.

Keep the inside of your home light by opening window blinds throughout your house.

If possible, plan a family trip to a sunnier climate during the winter.

Establish a set bedtime for you and your children to ensure everyone is getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Too much or too little sleep can trigger depression.

Encourage your family to exercise, whether it’s going for a walk, ice-skating or any other form of fun exercise.

When indoors, spend family time together by playing a board game, watching a movie or doing crafts and fun projects.

If you notice that your child is feeling down, tired and struggling with schoolwork, talk with your CCP pediatrician.

By visiting Children’s Express Care, our after-hours clinic, your child will receive the same specialized pediatric care you’ve come to expect from your CCP pediatrician. Open conveniently on evenings and weekends, your child can receive care for minor injuries and illnesses when your pediatrician’s office is closed for the day. Learn more about our services or find a location near you.

In the case of a serious emergency, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Give Us Your Feedback

Should a concern about your experience at CCP arise, please discuss it with your child’s pediatrician. If the concern remains unresolved, please email your concern to our Director of Clinical Operations at ccpconfidential@chp.edu. We will investigate your concern and provide you with a response. Contacting the Director of Clinical Operations will not negatively affect your care.